Harold Jellicoe "Coe" Percival Obituary

Amidst the many solemn ceremonies in remembrance of veterans taking place in England today is one unique funeral. Harold Jellicoe "Coe" Percival, a Royal Air Force veteran of World War II, died on Oct. 25, at the age of 99. Percival was single man who never married. He is not survived by any children, and there may not have been anyone in attendance at his funeral – except for the call to action published in his obituary and the amazing response of the community.

It started with a single sentence in a short death notice: "Any service personnel who can attend his funeral service would be appreciated." The result? A standing-room-only funeral, with a packed chapel and hundreds more mourners waiting outside to pay their respects. It was a remarkable way to observe Remembrance Day, and an appropriate and moving way to honor a veteran.

Amidst the many solemn ceremonies in remembrance of veterans taking place in England today is one unique funeral. Harold Jellicoe "Coe" Percival, a Royal Air Force veteran of World War II, died on Oct. 25, at the age of 99. Percival was single man who never married. He is not survived by any children, and there may not have been anyone in attendance at his funeral – except for the call to action published in his obituary and the amazing response of the community.

It started with a single sentence in a short death notice: "Any service personnel who can attend his funeral service would be appreciated." The result? A standing-room-only funeral, with a packed chapel and hundreds more mourners waiting outside to pay their respects. It was a remarkable way to observe Remembrance Day, and an appropriate and moving way to honor a veteran.

Guest Book Highlights

"Thank you Coe & may you rest in eternal peace in the kingdom of out Lord."- Vincent O'Shea (BOOM ROAD, NB)

"I have only just come upon this story now. How wonderful that so many people came to honour this veteran. RIP, Mr. Percival, and thank you for your service. Because of your service, we now have our freedom. God Bless."- Susan (Montreal, QC)

"Without you sir, I might not have the freedom to type this. I thank you brave soldier."

"Onward christian soldier...marching into heaven...thanks for serving your country....i send a salute to heaven to you...see you there some day......"- connie jenkins (memphis, TN)

"Thank you for your service Sir. RIP knowing that you did matter and that you WILL be remembered."- Regina H (Columbus, OH)